Current owner L.C. Thurman, who co-founded the Checkerboard Lounge at 423 E. 43rd St. with legendary blues artist Buddy Guy, has signed a 3,100-sf lease with Harper Court Foundation, an entity formed by the University of Chicago, for its new location. Although terms were not disclosed, the Checkerboard Lounge reportedly was offered a deep discount to relocate to newer space. Meanwhile, Jerry Kleiner and Marc Brooks will open Harper Grille in 5,000 sf at the shopping center. Kleiner owns and operates Marche, Red Light, Gioco, Opera and Saiko restaurants.
HSA Commercial Real Estate vice president Shannon Pope represented the University of Chicago in both lease deals. The university also owns the Hyde Park Shopping Center at 1526 E. 55th St.
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